By Joshua Henschke

Detroit Free Press Special Writer

Joshua Henschke is a writer at the Wolverines blog Maize-n-Brew. His opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the Detroit Free Press nor its writers. Read his column every week hereand contact him anytime at joshuahenschke@gmail.com.

When the Michigan’s Board of Regents voted down the idea of having fireworks during two games at Michigan Stadium last week, the fan base was relieved to know that Dave Brandon had suffered a loss at the hands of the university.

Sure, the idea of fireworks – like many things introduced to Michigan Stadium over the years – could be considered “gimmicky” to those who have been around the program for a long time. It can also be considered a ploy to make the Big House a more attractive destination and “enhance the fan experience,” but does Michigan Stadium really need it?

The constant struggle to get fans in the seats compared to the comforts of home entertainment has been a challenge over the years. However, considering the amount of money the football program alone brings to the athletic department, the struggle seems to be working in their favor.

The athletic department seemingly forgets one important fact. Which, alone, brings the fans to Ann Arbor on Saturday’s in the first place.

The football team.

Let’s face it; the only type of fireworks Michigan Stadium needs should come from the on-field product at U-M, more specifically, on-field success in the form of victories.

Ticket prices throughout each of the major American sports are getting to the point where staying home is the better option; it isn’t just a U-M problem. With that being said, for an opportunity to see a successful college football team play six or seven times a year, people are going to be more likely to pay the money to see a winning product.

It’s a safe bet that revenue has gone through the roof at a place like Alabama since hiring head coach Nick Saban.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, winning heals all wounds.

People care more about what is happening on the field compared to the aesthetics they are trying to introduce. The noise and view of 115,000-plus fans in one place is enough for most. It is 2014 and some sacrifices will need to be made, but fan or visitor, Michigan Stadium truly sells itself.

If the football team can get back to its winning ways, the need to introduce fireworks or halftime shows that include celebrities like Beyoncé won’t be necessary. The fans will come in droves to get a glimpse their national championship hopefuls.

Maybe, just maybe, the students could put down their next beer and show up on time if the team is winning.

Even with all this “need to win” talk, the faithful still show up in droves. That speaks volumes about the football program right now. But, if the team continues their losing ways, how long is that going to last?

The sellout streak at Michigan Stadium is something most thought would never end, but if expectations and the excitement levels continue to be this low, that streak could be in danger. The outcry if that happens would be astonishing.

If the team keeps losing, and fans lose the desire to show up, will fireworks really fix that?